Key Specs

1998 Toyota Supra Road Test

George Moore

One of the prefix meaning of the word supra is to surpass or go beyond; and when applied to the 1998 Toyota Supra Turbo it means surpass or go beyond in a hurry.

In turbocharged form, Toyota's sport coupe belongs among the flying machines. The normally aspirated (nonturbo) version itself is no slouch in the performance department. But adding a blower elevates the car onto a plain occupied by but a few.

The rear-drive Supra actually started life as part of the Toyota Celica line, debuting in 1979 as a Celica Supra. It finally was given its own identity in 1986, and a turbocharger was added the next year. But it wasn't until 1993 that the Supra Turbo entered into the realm of the supercars.

The 1998 model builds on these roots, with performance characteristics that rank among the upper echelon of go-fast vehicles while ensconced amidst the trapping of comfort and convenience.

There are a number of interesting design features about the '98 Supra Turbo.

In a era when the V configuration is embraced by the majority of six-cylinder motors, the Supra has its six cylinders all in a line. As an in-line 6 instead of a V-6, the engine retains an even firing order.

Rather than utilizing Toyota's variable valve timing that is applied to the normally aspirated 6, the Turbo uses fixed valve timing and twin sequential turbochargers. The Turbo has so much power that the VVT system isn't necessary.

The two turbochargers act in sequence, with only one turbo being active ... Read more

Latest Reviews

(5.0)

Will never not own a MKIV Supra.

by VNT from Severn, MD on July 2, 2017

Great car, stock 2jz-GTE short block can handle 800whp, was built beyond it's time with quality components. I on a regular occasion get asked by people what year the car is as they think it's within 5 ... Read full review

(5.0)

Best car ever!!

by Suprajeep from Warrenville, IL on June 24, 2017

I have owned my Supra for 15 years and had to replace the starter and that's it! Everything else runs great and the car gets more attention than anything on the road! Read full review